Epicurean Vegan

Healthy Eating for Discriminating Palates

Navigation

Vegan & Gluten-Free Falafel with Yogurt-Tahini Sauce

by

Vegan and Gluten-Free Falafel with Yogurt-Tahini Sauce -- Epicurean VeganYou may be surprised how easy falafel is to make at home. Plus, you can play with the spices and ingredients to suit your fancy. One thing I noticed, is that they are typically sauteed in a skillet with lots of oil, which is something I try to avoid doing too often. They’re also not typically gluten-free, so I decided to go all out and create gluten-free, baked falafel. Oh, and make them tasty. I think I accomplished all of that. The yogurt-tahini sauce couldn’t be easier to make, using only a few ingredients and a food processor. Usually, falafel sandwiches will have tabbouleh, but I opted for a quick and easy meal with lettuce, tomato and red onion instead. The falafel are also delicious on their own as a protein-packed snack dipped in sauce. Either way, I think you’ll enjoy this Greek classic.

INGREDIENTS:
1 small carrot, cut into 3-4 pieces
3-4 garlic cloves
1 small white onion, chopped
1 can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
3/4 C fresh cilantro
3/4 C fresh parsley
1-1/2 tsp cumin
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
3/4 C rice flour
1 tsp baking powder
Yogurt-Tahini Sauce
12-oz plain nondairy yogurt
1/3 C tahini
2 Tbs lemon juice
1/4 tsp salt
The rest
Lettuce
Tomato
Red onion
Cucumber slices would be great, too.

DIRECTIONS:
Toss the carrot pieces into the food processor and pulse just a couple of times until coarsely chopped. Add the garlic cloves and onion and pulse 2-3 more times.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Falafel with Yogurt-Tahini Sauce -- Epicurean VeganNext, add the garbanzo beans, cilantro, parsley, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend 10-20 seconds until smooth-ish . . . you just don’t want a major chunks. Transfer to a medium bowl and stir in the baking powder and rice flour.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Falafel with Yogurt-Tahini Sauce -- Epicurean VeganCover and refrigerate for about 20-30 minutes. In the meantime, preheat oven to 350 and then make the sauce. In your newly cleaned-out food processor bowl, combine all of the sauce ingredients and blend until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and set aside, along with your prepared veggies:
Vegan and Gluten-Free Falafel with Yogurt-Tahini Sauce -- Epicurean VeganTo make the falafel, line a large baking sheet with foil and spray it with a little cooking spray. Using your hands, scoop out about a 1/4 cup of the batter and create a mini patty; place onto the baking sheet. I ended up with 15:
Vegan and Gluten-Free Falafel with Yogurt-Tahini Sauce -- Epicurean VeganBake for 15-20 minutes, then turn them over and cook another 15-20 minutes. Fill a pita with some lettuce, sauce, tomato slices, red onion slices, 2-3 falafel and top them off with a bit more sauce. Enjoy!

Vegan & Gluten-Free Falafel with Yogurt-Tahini Sauce
 
Print
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
You may be surprised how easy falafel is to make at home. Plus, you can play with the spices and ingredients to suit your fancy. One thing I noticed, is that they are typically sauteed in a skillet with lots of oil, which is something I try to avoid doing too often. They're also not typically gluten-free, so I decided to go all out and create gluten-free, baked falafel. Oh, and make them tasty. I think I accomplished all of that. The yogurt-tahini sauce couldn't be easier to make, using only a few ingredients and a food processor. Usually, falafel sandwiches will have tabbouleh, but I opted for a quick and easy meal with lettuce, tomato and red onion instead. The falafel are also delicious on their own as a protein-packed snack dipped in sauce. Either way, I think you'll enjoy this Greek classic.
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 1 small carrot, cut into 3-4 pieces
  • 3-4 garlic cloves
  • 1 small white onion, chopped
  • 1 can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
  • ¾ C fresh cilantro
  • ¾ C fresh parsley
  • 1-1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¾ C rice flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • .
  • Yogurt-Tahini Sauce
  • .
  • 12-oz plain nondairy yogurt
  • ⅓ C tahini
  • 2 Tbs lemon juice
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • .
  • The rest
  • .
  • Lettuce
  • Tomato
  • Red onion
  • Cucumber slices would be great, too.
Directions
  1. Toss the carrot pieces into the food processor and pulse just a couple of times until coarsely chopped. Add the garlic cloves and onion and pulse 2-3 more times.
  2. Next, add the garbanzo beans, cilantro, parsley, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend 10-20 seconds until smooth-ish . . . you just don't want a major chunks. Transfer to a medium bowl and stir in the baking powder and rice flour. Cover and refrigerate for about 20-30 minutes.
  3. In the meantime, preheat oven to 350 and then make the sauce. In your newly cleaned-out food processor bowl, combine all of the sauce ingredients and blend until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and set aside, along with your prepared veggies.
  4. To make the falafel, line a large baking sheet with foil and spray it with a little cooking spray. Using your hands, scoop out about a ¼ cup of the batter and create a mini patty; place onto the baking sheet. I ended up with 15.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, then turn them over and cook another 15-20 minutes. Fill a pita with some lettuce, sauce, tomato slices, red onion slices, 2-3 falafel and top them off with a bit more sauce. Enjoy!

 

 

Thug Kitchen Cookbook Trailer {explicit}

by

I never thought I’d have the word “explicit” in a blog post title, but there’s a first time for everything. I LOVE this book trailer for the October 7 release of Thug Kitchen: Eat Like You Give a F*ck. It’s my favorite. The more I watch it, the funnier it is. If you’re easily offended by profanity, this may not be for you . . . but for the rest of you, enjoy.

Slow Cooker Mexican Quinoa & Black Beans

by

Slow Cooker Mexican Quinoa and Black Beans -- Epicurean VeganThis has been a favorite at our house for some time now. I found the original recipe on Pinterest, but have just tweaked it a little here and there. I also double the recipe because it makes great leftovers. I like to serve this with some tortilla chips, cilantro, avocado and vegan sour cream, but we’ve also been known to scoop it into a warm flour or corn tortilla with all fixins’ like tomato, cilantro, avocado, etc. It’s so easy to make; just toss in a slow cooker and it’s ready in about 3 hours. (And it’s gluten-free!) You can sub in any other kind of bean, such as kidney or chili beans, but I also think some lentils would be perfect too. And why not throw in a diced red bell pepper? The possibilities are endless!

INGREDIENTS:
2 15-oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed
3 C vegetable broth
1-1/2 C tri-color quinoa
1 C salsa
2 bay leaves
3 tsp cumin
2 tsp salt
1-1/2 tsp garlic powder
Black pepper, to taste
Zest and juice from 1 lime
1-2 avocados, peeled, pitted and cubed
1 C fresh cilantro, chopped
Vegan sour cream
Corn tortilla chips
Optional: flour tortillas or corn taco shells

DIRECTIONS:
Combine the beans, broth, quinoa, salsa, bay leaves, cumin, salt, and garlic powder in a slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 3 to 3-1/2 hours. If you can, stir it around once or twice. Once done, stir in the lime zest and juice. Season individual servings with pepper and top with avocado, cilantro and sour cream. Enjoy with tortilla chips.

Slow Cooker Mexican Quinoa & Black Beans
 
Print
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
This has been a favorite at our house for some time now. I found the original recipe on Pinterest, but have just tweaked it a little here and there. I also double the recipe because it makes great leftovers. I like to serve this with some tortilla chips, cilantro, avocado and vegan sour cream, but we've also been known to scoop it into a warm flour or corn tortilla with all fixins' like tomato, cilantro, avocado, etc. It's so easy to make; just toss in a slow cooker and it's ready in about 3 hours. (And it's gluten-free!) You can sub in any other kind of bean, such as kidney or chili beans, but I also think some lentils would be perfect too. And why not throw in a diced red bell pepper? The possibilities are endless!
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 2 15-oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 3 C vegetable broth
  • 1-1/2 C tri-color quinoa
  • 1 C salsa
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 tsp cumin
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1-1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Zest and juice from 1 lime
  • 1-2 avocados, peeled, pitted and cubed
  • 1 C fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Vegan sour cream
  • Corn tortilla chips
  • Optional: flour tortillas or corn taco shells
Directions
  1. Combine the beans, broth, quinoa, salsa, bay leaves, cumin, salt, and garlic powder in a slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 3 to 3-1/2 hours. If you can, stir it around once or twice.
  2. Once done, stir in the lime zest and juice.
  3. Season individual servings with pepper and top with avocado, cilantro and sour cream. Enjoy with tortilla chips.

 

 

Black Rice & Lentil Thai Bowls with Cashew-Coconut Curry Sauce

by

Black Rice and Lentil Thai Bowls with Cashew-Coconut Curry Sauce -- Epicurean VeganYou’re going to need a big bowl to fit in all this goodness. It’s easy to go overboard with different veggies and toppings, but I think I found a great combination for these Thai bowls. Not only are they vegan, but they’re gluten-free too. The flavors of the sauce mingle beautifully with the steamed cauliflower, tofu and kale. The pepitas also add a nice extra crunch as well. Served warm or cold, these bowls are great to take to work for a filling, protein-packed lunch.

INGREDIENTS:
2-1/2 C vegetable broth
1 C black rice
1 C green lentils
1 head cauliflower
14-oz extra firm tofu, drained, pressed and cubed
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 carrots, grated
3 C kale, chopped
1 C green onion, sliced
1/2 C pepitas
Cashew-Coconut Curry Sauce:
1 C cashews, soaked in hot water for about an hour
2 cloves garlic
1 can coconut milk
1 Tbs fresh ginger, grated
2 Tbs peanut butter
Juice from one lime
1 Tbs curry powder
1 tsp salt

DIRECTIONS:
To begin, combine the rice, lentils and vegetable broth in a large soup pot and bring to a boil. Stir, reduce heat, and cover; cook for 40-45 minutes. This will give you plenty of time to get everything else prepared: chop the veggies, saute the tofu and steam the cauliflower. For the tofu, I just sauteed the cubes in a dry skillet until slightly browned. Steam the cauliflower florets for about 8-10 minutes—not too much though because you want to avoid making the cauliflower too mushy (unless you like that sort of thing). I prefer them to have a little bit of crunch. To make the sauce, toss the garlic cloves in a food processor and mince. Next, add all of the other sauce ingredients and puree for several minutes until completely smooth. Transfer to a small saucepan and heat over medium-low heat until it thickens just a little—only a couple of minutes.

Black Rice and Lentil Thai Bowls with Cashew-Coconut Curry Sauce -- Epicurean VeganOnce the rice and lentils are done, fluff with a spoon. To serve, start with some rice-lentil mixture, then add the kale, tofu, cauliflower, carrots, green onions, sauce and top with the pepitas. Absolutely delicious! Enjoy!

Black Rice & Lentil Thai Bowls with Cashew-Coconut Curry Sauce
 
Print
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
You're going to need a big bowl to fit in all this goodness. It's easy to go overboard with different veggies and toppings, but I think I found a great combination for these Thai bowls. Not only are they vegan, but they're gluten-free too. The flavors of the sauce mingle beautifully with the steamed cauliflower, tofu and kale. The pepitas also add a nice extra crunch as well. Served warm or cold, these bowls are great to take to work for a filling, protein-packed lunch.
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 2-1/2 C vegetable broth
  • 1 C black rice
  • 1 C green lentils
  • 1 head cauliflower
  • 14-oz extra firm tofu, drained, pressed and cubed
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 carrots, grated
  • 3 C kale, chopped
  • 1 C green onion, sliced
  • ½ C pepitas
  • .
  • Cashew-Coconut Curry Sauce:
  • .
  • 1 C cashews, soaked in hot water for about an hour
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 Tbs fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 Tbs peanut butter
  • Juice from one lime
  • 1 Tbs curry powder
  • 1 tsp salt
Directions
  1. To begin, combine the rice, lentils and vegetable broth in a large soup pot and bring to a boil. Stir, reduce heat, and cover; cook for 40-45 minutes.
  2. This will give you plenty of time to get everything else prepared: chop the veggies, saute the tofu and steam the cauliflower.
  3. For the tofu, I just sauteed the cubes in a dry skillet until slightly browned.
  4. Steam the cauliflower florets for about 8-10 minutes---not too much though because you want to avoid making the cauliflower too mushy (unless you like that sort of thing). I prefer them to have a little bit of crunch.
  5. To make the sauce, toss the garlic cloves in a food processor and mince. Next, add all of the other sauce ingredients and puree for several minutes until completely smooth. Transfer to a small saucepan and heat over medium-low heat until it thickens just a little---only a couple of minutes.
  6. Once the rice and lentils are done, fluff with a spoon.
  7. To serve, start with some rice-lentil mixture, then add the kale, tofu, cauliflower, carrots, green onions, sauce and top with the pepitas. Absolutely delicious! Enjoy!

 

Hearty Tuscan Chili

by

Hearty Tuscan Chili -- Epicurean VeganI like to imagine the posh Italian ski resorts would serve something like this, or at a cafe where snow is lightly falling in Milan. With a nice glass of red wine, this flavorful stew is perfect for a fall or winter evening with friends. This would also be great for tossing in the crockpot and letting it simmer on low all day (just do the sauteeing ahead of time). Served with some crusty bread or croutons, you’ll feel like the Italian Alps are right outside your window.

INGREDIENTS:
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbs olive oil
1 red onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 Tofurky sausages, Spinach & Pesto flavor, cut into small cubes
1 medium zucchini, cut into small cubes
15-oz can tri-bean blend (or Cannellini beans), drained and rinsed
14-oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
2-1/2 C vegetable broth
1/4 C red wine
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp basil
1/2 tsp parsley
1/2 tsp crushed rosemary
1/4 tsp thyme
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Crusty bread or croutons
Hearty Tuscan Chili2-- Epicurean VeganDIRECTIONS:
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and add the garlic. Saute 2 minutes, then add the onion and red bell pepper; cook until softened, about 10 minutes. Next, add the Tofurky and saute another 5-8 minutes. Add the zucchini and cook for 5 minutes.
Hearty Tuscan Chili -- Epicurean VeganAdd the beans, tomatoes, wine, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes over medium-low heat.
Hearty Tuscan Chili -- Epicurean VeganTop with croutons or serve with some crusty Italian bread. Enjoy!
Hearty Tuscan Chili -- Epicurean Vegan

Hearty Tuscan Chili
 
Print
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
I like to imagine the posh Italian ski resorts would serve something like this, or at a cafe where snow is lightly falling in Milan. With a nice glass of red wine, this flavorful stew is perfect for a fall or winter evening with friends. This would also be great for tossing in the crockpot and letting it simmer on low all day (just do the sauteeing ahead of time). Served with some crusty bread or croutons, you'll feel like the Italian Alps are right outside your window.
Author:
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 red onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 Tofurky sausages, Spinach & Pesto flavor, cut into small cubes
  • 1 medium zucchini, cut into small cubes
  • 15-oz can tri-bean blend (or Cannellini beans), drained and rinsed
  • 14-oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2-1/2 C vegetable broth
  • ¼ C red wine
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp basil
  • ½ tsp parsley
  • ½ tsp crushed rosemary
  • ¼ tsp thyme
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Crusty bread or croutons
Directions
  1. In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and add the garlic. Saute 2 minutes, then add the onion and red bell pepper; cook until softened, about 10 minutes. Next, add the Tofurky and saute another 5-8 minutes. Add the zucchini and cook for 5 minutes.
  2. Add the beans, tomatoes, wine, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes over medium-low heat.
  3. Top with croutons or serve with some crusty Italian bread. Enjoy!

 

 

Manicotti stuffed with Butternut Squash, Spinach & Ricotta

by

Manicotti stuffed with Butternut Squash, Spinach and Ricotta -- Epicurean VeganIt’s that time of year . . . butternut squash time, that is. The farmer’s market here has broken out the squashes, so expect some squash recipes in the coming months. You may be amazed by how versatile squash is. Before, I never would have made stuffed shells with butternut squash, but now, it’s one of my favorite pasta fillings.
Here’s a few other recipes to try:
Bowties with Butternut Squash
Butternut Squash and Mushroom Lasagna
And you could easily sub in butternut squash in these Sweet Potato and Ricotta Ravioli

And many of you know, I LOVE pasta, so if I can incorporate my favorite squash with my favorite Italian staple, I’m a happy vegan. These are also very easy to make, so you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen. You can even make up the filling ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to stuff the manicotti.

INGREDIENTS:
1 small butternut squash
1 tsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp sage
3 C spinach, chopped
1 handful fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 handful fresh chives, chopped
8-oz pkg. manicotti (14 manicotti)
1/2 recipe Tofu Ricotta (recipe below) or soy-free version
1 jar marinara sauce
Tofu Ricotta
14-oz pkg extra firm tofu, drained and pressed
1 tsp basil
1 tsp rosemary
1 tsp salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/3 C nutritional yeast
2 Tbs lemon juice
Optional: 1/2 C Daiya Mozzarella shreds

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 425. Slice the butternut squash in half, place on a baking sheet and lightly brush with the olive oil. I used a rimmed baking sheet and added some water to the pan to help keep the squash from drying out. Roast 30-45 minutes, or until the squash is softened; let cool. Lower the oven temperature to 375. Meanwhile, to prepare the ricotta, place all the ingredients, except the Daiya cheese, in a food processor and process until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the cheese.

Manicotti stuffed with Spinach, Butternut Squash and Ricotta -- Epicurean VeganCombine the spinach with the basil and chives.
Manicotti stuffed with Spinach, Butternut Squash and Ricotta -- Epicurean VeganWhen the butternut squash is cool enough to handle, scoop it out into a bowl and mash well. Season with salt, pepper and sage. (This is also a good time to get the water boiling for the pasta). Mix half  of the ricotta mixture into the butternut squash and stir to thoroughly combine. Fold in the spinach and mix well. Store the rest of the tofu ricotta in an airtight container and save for another meal. You can also freeze it.
Manicotti stuffed with Butternut Squash, Spinach and Ricotta -- Epicurean VeganBe sure to NOT overcook the pasta—they’ll split easily and you won’t be able to stuff them. I had a couple start to split, so keep an eye on them. And don’t worry about them being under cooked because they will continue to cook and soften in the oven. After I drained the pasta, I poured them out onto a large baking sheet, otherwise, they’ll stick together in the colander and you don’t want that. The best way to stuff these would be with your freshly cleaned hands, but first, pour about 1/3 of the marinara on the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish. Next. stuff each manicotti roll with filling and place in the pan.
Manicotti stuffed with Spinach, Butternut Squash and Ricotta -- Epicurean VeganPour the remaining sauce on top, covering all of the manicotti. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Manicotti stuffed with Spinach, Butternut Squash and Ricotta -- Epicurean VeganEnjoy!

Manicotti stuffed with Butternut Squash, Spinach & Ricotta
 
Print
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
Author:
Serves: 5-7
Ingredients
  • 1 small butternut squash
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp sage
  • 3 C spinach, chopped
  • 1 handful fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 handful fresh chives, chopped
  • 8-oz pkg. manicotti (14 manicotti)
  • ½ recipe Tofu Ricotta (recipe below) or soy-free version
  • 1 jar marinara sauce
  • .
  • Tofu Ricotta
  • .
  • 14-oz pkg extra firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • 1 tsp basil
  • 1 tsp rosemary
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ⅓ C nutritional yeast
  • 2 Tbs lemon juice
  • Optional: ½ C Daiya Mozzarella shreds
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 425. Slice the butternut squash in half, place on a baking sheet and lightly brush with the olive oil. I used a rimmed baking sheet and added some water to the pan to help keep the squash from drying out. Roast 30-45 minutes, or until the squash is softened. Lower the oven temperature to 375.
  2. Meanwhile, to prepare the ricotta, place all the ingredients, except the Daiya cheese, in a food processor and process until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the cheese.
  3. Combine the spinach with the basil and chives.
  4. When the butternut squash is cool enough to handle, scoop it out into a bowl and mash well. Season with salt, pepper and sage. (This is also a good time to get the water boiling for the pasta). Mix half ricotta mixture into the butternut squash and stir to thoroughly combine. Fold in the spinach and mix well. Store the rest of the tofu ricotta in an airtight container and save for another meal. You can freeze it.
  5. Be sure to NOT overcook the pasta---they'll split easily and you won't be able to stuff them. I had a couple start to split, so keep an eye on them. And don't worry about them being under cooked because they will continue to cook and soften in the oven. After I drained the pasta, I poured them out onto a large baking sheet, otherwise, they'll stick together in the colander and you don't want that. The best way to stuff these would be with your freshly cleaned hands, but first, pour about ⅓ of the marinara on the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish. Next. stuff each manicotti roll with filling and place in the pan.
  6. Pour the remaining sauce on top, covering all of the manicotti. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Enjoy!

 

 

The Winner is . . .

by

Simple Recipes for Joy CookbookCongratulations to Kat!

You’re the random winner of Sharon Gannon’s Simple Recipes for Joy! Also, well done on taking that step into vegetarianism. I think this cookbook will be ideal for you as you transition to a vegan way of life 🙂 Thank you to everyone who entered and hopefully, I’ll have some more giveaways coming up! Stay tuned.

Coconut Curry Over Ginger-Lime Rice

by

Coconut Curry Over Ginger-Lime Rice -- Epicurean VeganYou’re probably expecting me to throw some lentils in this dish . . . and I probably would have if I had any! With or without lentils, this curry dish, full of veggies, is packed full of flavor and perfect over the ginger-lime rice. This is such a fast and easy dish that I don’t even have more pictures for you! But don’t worry, you won’t need them; dinner will be ready in 30 minutes!

INGREDIENTS:
2 medium russet potatoes
1 Tbs coconut oil
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/2″ pieces, then cut in half
3 C mushrooms, quartered
2 Tbs yellow curry powder
3/4 tsp garam masala
1 tsp salt
1/4 to 1/2 tsp cayenne
1 C vegetable broth
2 cans coconut milk
2 C rice
1 Tbs fresh ginger
Zest from one lime
4-5 green onion, sliced

DIRECTIONS:
Start with microwaving the potatoes until they are just soften; set aside and let them cool a little before  slicing and cutting into cubes.  In a large soup pot, melt the coconut oil over medium heat and add the garlic; cook 2-3 minutes. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. Next, add the zucchini and cook another 5 minutes. Stir in the curry powder, garam masala, salt and cayenne and coat the vegetables well. Add the broth and coconut milk, stir well, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large pot, mix the ginger and lime zest with 4 cups of water and stir in the rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes. 5 minutes before serving, fold in the potatoes and mushrooms. Serve over the rice and top with green onions. Enjoy!

Coconut Curry Over Ginger-Lime Rice
 
Print
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
This curry dish, full of veggies, is packed full of flavor and perfect over the ginger-lime rice. This is such a fast and easy dish that I don't even have more pictures for you! But don't worry, you won't need them; dinner will be ready in 30 minutes!
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 2 medium russet potatoes
  • 1 Tbs coconut oil
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced into ½" pieces, then cut in half
  • 3 C mushrooms, quartered
  • 2 Tbs yellow curry powder
  • ¾ tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¼ to ½ tsp cayenne
  • 1 C vegetable broth
  • 2 cans coconut milk
  • 2 C rice
  • 1 Tbs fresh ginger
  • Zest from one lime
  • 4-5 green onion, sliced
Directions
  1. Start with microwaving the potatoes until they are just soften; set aside and let them cool a little before slicing and cutting into cubes.
  2. In a large soup pot, melt the coconut oil over medium heat and add the garlic; cook 2-3 minutes. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
  3. Next, add the zucchini and cook another 5 minutes. Stir in the curry powder, garam masala, salt and cayenne and coat the vegetables well.
  4. Add the broth and coconut milk, stir well, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, in a large pot, mix the ginger and lime zest with 4 cups of water and stir in the rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes.
  6. minutes before serving, fold in the potatoes and mushrooms.
  7. Serve over the rice and top with green onions. Enjoy!

 

Cookbook Review & Giveaway: Simple Recipes for Joy by Sharon Gannon

by

Simple Recipes for Joy CookbookI am delighted to share with you this fabulous cookbook, Simple Recipes for Joy: More than 200 Delicious Vegan Recipes by Sharon Gannon, founder of Jivamukti yoga and owner of Jivamuktea Cafe in New York City’s Union Square. You might be asking, What on earth is Jivamukti yoga?! Well, in 1984, along with David Life, Gannon created this type of yoga that combines hatha yoga and vinyasa-based-physical style yoga with adherence to five central tenets: shastra (scripture), bhakti (devotion), ahimsa (non-harming), nada (musis) and dhyana (meditation). Social activism, animal rights, veganism and environmentalism is also a major component to the practice.

“Jivamukti Yoga is a path to enlightenment through compassion for all beings. Jiva mutki is a Sanskrit word that means to live liberated in joyful, musical harmony with the Earth. The Earth does not belong to us—we belong to the Earth. Let us celebrate our connection to life by not enslaving animals and exploiting the Earth, and attain freedom and happiness for ourselves in the process. For surely, the way to uplift our own lives is to do all we can to uplift the lives of others. Go vegan!”

—Sharon Gannon

Don’t be too fooled by the whimsical cover; Gannon takes veganism, her yoga and her recipes very serious. The forward, by the crazy, sexy vegan herself, Kris Carr, is an informative, poignant and compelling opening that highlights the importance of adopting a vegan diet for the health of humans, animals and Mother Earth. Gannon’s passion and heart comes through in the pages of her introduction, where she discusses her path to veganism and why it is so imperative for us to go vegan to not just better our health, but to save the animals and the planet. If you’re a longtime vegan, you may find it gets a little redundant, but for a new vegan, it’s such an awesome resource, especially when you might need a hand in explaining to others the importance of a vegan diet. Packed full of facts and figures, Gannon’s introduction should be read by every meat-eater on Earth. In addition to a plethora of recipes, Gannon also includes an informative FAQ section, Cooking Tips, what makes a well-stocked kitchen, 30 Sample Menus and how to do a 21-Day Cleanse.

As the title says, many of these recipes are very simple. The seasoned vegan might scoff at some of the simplicity of a few recipes like the Vegan BLT on page 238, or the “Toasts” chapter, but the beauty of these recipes, is that it shows new, or thinking-of-becoming, vegans who might have the misconception that veganism is difficult. There are plenty of unique recipes, however, that will challenge your taste buds and maybe even introduce you to flavors and ingredients you’ve never tried before. I’m anxious to try the Maharini Dal on page 61, the Spaghetti and “Meat Balls” on page 104 and the  Hippy Carrot Cake on page 282. There’s something for everyone from tons of soup recipes, pastas, grains, sandwiches, desserts and lots more. With beautiful pictures throughout, this is a joyful and delicious cookbook to have.

So far, I have made . . .

Lemon-Lentil Soup, page 65
Oh, lentils! Love them! This soup, ladled over basmati rice is a flavorful, lemony dish that is easy to prepare.
Lemon-Lentil Soup, Simple Recipes for JoyCaesar Salad with Tempeh Croutons, page 128
Fabulous! The dressing is tangy and delicious and I love using sauteed tempeh as croutons.
Caesar Salad with Tempeh Croutons, Simple Recipes for JoyCornbread, page 256
Made with coconut milk, this cornbread is moist, delicious and ever-so fluffy! And talk about simple—it was ready in no time at all. 
CornbreadSo, I’ll bet you want to win a copy for yourself, or for a friend, right? Well, all you have to do is leave a comment and tell me why Simple Recipes for Joy would be the perfect addition to your cookbook library. (It also wouldn’t hurt to like my Facebook page, while you’re at it.) The cookbook will be released September 16th and I will giveaway a copy Friday, September 19th, so get your comments in by midnight, MST on Thursday, the 18th. Good luck!

Hearty Vegetable-Lentil Soup

by

Hearty Vegetable-Lentil Soup -- Epicurean VeganSo, I’ve been kind of mackin’ on lentils lately. If you’re a longtime reader, you may have noticed that I haven’t cooked with lentils too often. I bought some a couple of weeks ago because I wanted to give them a shot. I’ve had plenty of lentil dishes at restaurants, but for some reason, I just never introduced them into my kitchen—until now. This nutty, earthy legume is not only tasty, but it’s pretty healthy too: high in fiber which helps lower cholesterol, control weight and keeps things moving smoothly; high in magnesium and folate which promotes heart heath and improves blood and oxygen flow; and is an excellent source of protein. How ’bout that?! Add in some other healthy veggies and you have yourself a powerful bowl of vegan goodness. This soup started out with me scouring the produce drawers; not much there at the moment because I have to hit the grocery store tomorrow, so I wasn’t sure how prolific this soup would be, but I’m thrilled with the results. If you’ve fallen out of love with lentils, rekindle the magic with this hearty, comforting bowl of lentil love.

INGREDIENTS:
1 Tbs olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large onion, chopped
9 C vegetable broth
1-1/2 C lentils (I used half green, half red)
1 C pasta (I used rotini, but any small pasta will do)
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp oregano
1 bay leaf
2 C mushrooms, quartered or chopped
1 14-oz can diced tomatoes, drained
4 C spinach (about 1 cup of that was kale), chopped

DIRECTIONS:
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and add the garlic; cook 1-2 minutes. Add the onions and cook until they soften and brown just slightly, about 10 minutes. Add in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the lentils, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover (I didn’t cover completely. I left a 1/2″ gap). Cook 40 minutes, but stir once in a while. Next, add the pasta and increase heat to medium. Stir occasionally.

Hearty Vegetable-Lentil Soup -- Epicurean VeganOnce the pasta is about halfway cooked–about 5 minutes–reduce heat and stir in the mushrooms.
Hearty Vegetable-Lentil Soup -- Epicurean VeganCook another 5 minutes, then add the tomatoes and spinach. Lower heat and cook until the greens have cooked down, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat, serve and enjoy!

Hearty Vegetable-Lentil Soup
 
Print
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
This nutty, earthy legume is not only tasty, but it's pretty healthy too: high in fiber which helps lower cholesterol, control weight and keeps things moving smoothly; high in magnesium and folate which promotes heart heath and improves blood and oxygen flow; and is an excellent source of protein. How 'bout that?! Add in some other healthy veggies and you have yourself a powerful bowl of vegan goodness. This soup started out with me scouring the produce drawers; not much there at the moment because I have to hit the grocery store tomorrow, so I wasn't sure how prolific this soup would be, but I'm thrilled with the results. If you've fallen out of love with lentils, rekindle the magic with this hearty, comforting bowl of lentil love.
Author:
Serves: 8
Ingredients
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 9 C vegetable broth
  • 1-1/2 C lentils (I used a half green, half red)
  • 1 C pasta (I used rotini, but any small pasta will do)
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ¼ tsp oregano
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 C mushrooms, quartered or chopped
  • 1 14-oz can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 4 C spinach (about 1 cup of that was kale), chopped
Directions
  1. In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and add the garlic; cook 1-2 minutes. Add the onions and cook until they soften and brown just slightly, about 10 minutes.
  2. Add in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the lentils, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover (I didn't cover completely. I left a ½" gap). Cook 40 minutes.
  3. Next, add the pasta and increase heat to medium. Stir occasionally.
  4. Once the pasta is about halfway cooked--about 5 minutes--reduce heat and stir in the mushrooms.
  5. Cook another 5 minutes, then add the tomatoes and spinach. Lower heat and cook until the greens have cooked down, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat, serve and enjoy!

 

 

Categories

Archives

Popular Posts

StudioPress Premium WordPress Themes: Foodie Theme